A meniscus tear causes pain on the inner or outer side of the knee, swelling over a day or two, and sometimes catching, locking or the knee giving way. In younger people it usually follows a twist. In people over 40 it often comes from wear, with no clear injury.
Self-care first
- Ice, rest from twisting and deep squats, gentle movement
- Exercise therapy for 6 to 12 weeks
- For wear-related tears in middle age, trials show physiotherapy often works as well as keyhole surgery
When surgery is considered
- The knee truly locks and will not straighten
- A large tear in a young person that may be repairable
- Symptoms stay after a proper course of exercise therapy
Some clinics also offer PRP or stem cell injections for meniscus problems; evidence is still limited and a doctor should review your MRI first.